Egyptian journalist and researcher, Ismail Iskandarani, known for his critical coverage of government policies, has been detained again by Egyptian authorities, sparking widespread condemnation from human rights organizations. Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported that Iskandarani was apprehended on October 24, 2025, following a series of Facebook posts that critiqued Egypt’s domestic policies, particularly in the volatile Sinai Peninsula.

His arrest is part of a continuing trend in Egypt where the government, under President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, has been accused of stifling free speech and suppressing media freedom. Iskandarani, who had previously spent over seven years in prison on charges of "spreading false news" and "joining a banned group," faces ongoing persecution for his journalistic activities. This pattern of repression highlights the Egyptian government's routine interference with journalism and its disregard for international human rights norms.

Amr Magdi, a senior researcher at HRW, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "This is a bellwether moment for the Egyptian government and the only way out of its protracted crisis is to stop unlawfully detaining critics and journalists and release all those arbitrarily detained."

Despite being allowed legal representation, Iskandarani was reportedly not permitted to speak confidentially with his lawyers, raising serious concerns about the fairness of his treatment and legal proceedings. His work, which often sheds light on counterterrorism operations and the impact on civilians in North Sinai, has made him a target for state harassment.

The broader implications of Iskandarani’s detention extend beyond just one individual. Dozens of journalists remain imprisoned under similar charges, and the Egyptian authorities continue to block access to hundreds of news websites, controlling the narrative and limiting public discourse.

The international community, including UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders Mary Lawlor, has urged Egypt to adhere to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. These international agreements advocate for the rights of the arrested and the assurance of a fair trial, highlighting the ongoing human rights violations within the country.

As global condemnation grows, the pressure on the Egyptian government to reform its approach towards journalists and critics is intensifying. The case of Ismail Iskandarani is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who dare to speak out against oppression and the imperative need for change in the landscape of global human rights practices.